Small Town Character

Preserving Our Small-Town Character in a Time of Growth

Duvall is growing. Our population has steadily increased, new neighborhoods are taking shape, and commercial development is on the horizon. But amid all this change, one question rises to the top:

How do we grow without losing what makes Duvall, Duvall?

For many of us, the answer lies in our small-town character—a quality that’s hard to define but easy to feel. It’s in the way neighbors wave from porches, the joy of kids riding bikes down quiet streets, and the comfort of knowing your barista, your mail carrier, and your city council-member by name.

As our city evolves, preserving that character isn’t just a nostalgic wish—it’s a strategic imperative. It’s what makes Duvall attractive, welcoming, and thriving. It’s what keeps people rooted here. And it’s what gives us a sense of belonging in an increasingly fast-paced world.

What Is “Small-Town Character,” Really?

Small-town character isn’t about size—it’s about connection. It’s about the relationships, rhythms, and values that shape daily life. In Duvall, it looks like:

  • Walkable neighborhoods where kids can safely walk or bike to school

  • A vibrant Main Street with locally owned shops and cafes

  • Community events like Duvall Days and the March of the Vegetables

  • Parks and trails where families gather and friendships grow

  • A culture of caring, where people look out for one another

This character is deeply embedded in our city’s vision. According to the 2015 Comprehensive Plan, Duvall is envisioned as “a charming small town with a diverse, attractive, and engaging Old Town/Downtown that is walkable, commerce-oriented, and economically thriving.” It’s a place where “trails, sidewalks, and streets enable families to explore parks and neighborhoods on foot or by bike,” and where “art, culture, and our heritage are valued.”

In a 2024 community survey, residents echoed this sentiment, listing “Small Town Feel” as the top value they cherish about Duvall.

Why It Matters

Small-town character isn’t just a feel-good concept—it has tangible benefits:

  • Community Safety: When neighbors know each other, they look out for one another, contributing to lower crime rates.

  • Economic Vitality: A unique, walkable downtown attracts visitors and supports local businesses.

  • Mental Well-being: Green spaces and community connections enhance quality of life.

  • Civic Engagement: Residents are more likely to participate in local governance and community events.

Preserving this character ensures that Duvall remains not just a place to live, but a place to belong.

How Do We Protect It?

Preserving small-town character amid growth requires intentional strategies:

1. Thoughtful Urban Planning

  • Maintain Walkability: Ensure new developments include sidewalks, bike lanes, and connections to existing trails.

  • Protect Green Spaces: Prioritize parks and open spaces in planning decisions.

  • Support Local Businesses: Encourage commercial spaces that favor local entrepreneurs over big-box retailers.

2. Community-Centric Development

  • Engage Residents: Involve the community in decision-making processes to reflect shared values.

  • Preserve Historic Areas: Protect and celebrate the unique architecture and history of Old Town.

  • Balance Growth: Align new developments with the city’s capacity to maintain infrastructure and services.

3. Invest in Public Spaces

  • Enhance Parks and Trails: Continue developing spaces like McCormick Park and expanding the trail network.

  • Support Recreation: Provide facilities for diverse activities, from soccer to pickleball to mountain biking.

  • Foster Gathering Places: Create plazas and community centers that serve as hubs for connection.

Ultimately, preserving small-town character is a collective effort. It’s about how we interact, support local businesses, participate in community events, and engage in civic life.

By staying connected and involved, we ensure that as Duvall grows, it retains the warmth, charm, and community spirit that make it unique.

Looking Ahead

Growth is inevitable, but losing our identity is not. By prioritizing small-town character in our planning, development, and daily interactions, we can ensure that Duvall remains a place where:

  • Children play safely in their neighborhoods

  • Neighbors know and support each other

  • Local businesses thrive

  • Community events bring people together

  • Nature is accessible and cherished

Let’s commit to a future where Duvall grows thoughtfully, preserving the qualities that have always made it feel like home.